"I can’t understand what they were thinking when they appointed him."
Even though the publications talk about elders needing to interview a potential new elder and ask them three questions, it says the new elder would be appointed if they answer "no" to all three, but it doesn't say anywhere that they WON'T be appointed even if they answer "yes" to any of the three questions...
"(1) Is there anything from your past, even before baptism, or in your personal or family life that disqualifies you or that would prevent you from accepting this appointment?
(2) Is there any reason why your appointment should not be announced to the congregation?
(3) Have you as an adult ever been involved at any time in the past with child sexual abuse?"
If the brother answers no to the questions, the circuit overseer will provide the elders with a signed appointment letter..." (from "Shepherd the Flock of God" under appointing elders section)
"Shepherd Flock of God" regarding removing restrictions...
https://files.accessjw.org/s/NSCySFCnaSiE2A5
Branch Manual regarding removing restrictions...
https://files.accessjw.org/s/KN3wgcSJwYxxFfi
"At least the Elders obeyed the Ungodly Rules when appointing him!"